Principal Software Engineer AI & Automation

Job Description

Job Title:

Principal Software Engineer - AI & Automation

Location:

SeaTac, WA

Duration:

8 Months Role Overview We are seeking a highly experienced Principal Software Engineer - AI & Automation to serve as a technical leader and subject matter expert in AI-enabled full-stack development and automation. This is a hands-on role responsible for driving strategy, designing scalable solutions, and delivering high-quality software across modern engineering and low/no-code platforms. The role combines deep technical expertise with leadership responsibilities, including guiding engineering teams, influencing technology direction, and delivering innovative AI-driven solutions that enhance business processes and user experiences. Key Responsibilities Act as the lead subject matter expert in AI, automation, and full-stack software engineering within an agile environment. Lead and coordinate technical delivery for a team of ~7 engineers, including setting direction, aligning priorities, and ensuring successful execution. Design, develop, test, and deploy scalable, secure, and maintainable end-to-end solutions, including: Custom software applications and APIs Cloud-based AI services (LLMs, cognitive services, AI platforms) Low/no-code solutions using Microsoft Power Platform (Power Apps, Power Automate) Drive best practices in software development, including clean code, TDD, CI/CD, code reviews, and system observability. Partner with business stakeholders to understand requirements and translate them into AI-powered and automated solutions. Lead technical discussions, design sessions, and demos, communicating effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences. Influence and contribute to technology strategy for AI, automation, and modern engineering practices. Mentor engineers and promote adoption of emerging technologies, including AI/ML and automation tools. Advocate for responsible AI usage, governance, and sustainable automation practices across teams. Required Qualifications 7+ years of experience in software engineering or a related field. Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent experience. Strong experience in full-stack development using object-oriented languages (e.g., C#, Java). Expertise in cloud technologies and distributed system architecture. Proven experience leading and coordinating engineering teams (7+ members). Hands-on experience delivering AI-enabled or automation solutions, including integration of AI/ML or LLM services. Experience with low/no-code platforms, preferably Microsoft Power Platform. Strong understanding of design patterns, SOLID principles, and code quality practices. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. Preferred Qualifications Experience with Microsoft technologies (.NET, .NET Core, Azure, MS SQL). Knowledge of Angular (v10+) or modern front-end frameworks. Experience with containerization tools (Docker, Kubernetes, OpenShift). Familiarity with DevOps practices and tools (Azure DevOps, CI/CD pipelines). Experience with AI/ML technologies, including LLMs, Azure OpenAI, or cognitive services. Exposure to test automation, SRE practices, and Agile methodologies. Experience leading complex, cross-functional technical initiatives. Experience mentoring engineers or enabling citizen developers in low-code environments. Applicant Notices & Disclaimers For information on benefits, equal opportunity employment, and location-specific applicant notices, click here At SPECTRAFORCE, we are committed to maintaining a workplace that ensures fair compensation and wage transparency in adherence with all applicable state and local laws. This position's starting pay is: $65.00/hr.